Creamy Garlic Chicken

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat, you’ve come to the right place! This Creamy Garlic Chicken is a personal favorite of mine. The tender chicken bathed in a luscious garlic gravy makes for an unforgettable dish that can elevate any weeknight dinner or family gathering. Plus, it’s so simple to whip up in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze!

What I love most about this recipe is its ability to impress without the fuss. Whether you’re cooking for your loved ones after a long day or hosting friends for a cozy dinner, this dish fits the bill perfectly. Trust me; once you try it, it will become a go-to in your recipe collection!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 15 minutes of prep and 40 minutes of cooking time, this dish fits seamlessly into busy schedules.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the creamy sauce and tender chicken—perfect for all taste buds!
• One-Skillet Wonder: Say goodbye to piles of dishes! Everything cooks together in one pan, saving you time and effort.
• Flavor-Packed: The caramelized garlic adds depth and richness that will make your taste buds dance.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it earlier in the day, then heat up when you’re ready—it’s great for meal prep!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients for this Creamy Garlic Chicken is a breeze! These simple, wholesome items are likely already in your pantry or fridge. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken

• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
• Salt/Pepper
• 3 teaspoons Italian seasonings
• ⅓ cup flour

For the Sauce

• 4 tablespoons Parmesan cheese (shredded)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 beef bouillon cube (or 1 tsp better than bouillon)
• 1 teaspoon low sodium soy sauce (can sub Worcestershire sauce)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon EACH: Dried thyme, mustard powder

For Cooking

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 10 whole cloves garlic
• 3 tablespoons flour
• ½ cup heavy cream
• (Optional) ½ cup Parmesan cheese

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey cutlets or even firm tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or mushrooms while sautéing for added nutrition and flavor.
• Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes brings some heat if you enjoy a bit of spice.
• Cream substitute: Swap heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free alternative.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasonings. This step is crucial because it enhances the flavor of the chicken itself before it even hits the skillet!

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add your seasoned chicken breasts. Searing them until golden brown on each side not only locks in their juices but also adds that beautiful color we all love.

Step 3: Cook the Garlic

Once your chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and set aside. In the same pan, melt butter and add whole cloves of garlic. Cooking them until they’re golden and fragrant fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma!

Step 4: Make the Gravy

To create that creamy sauce everyone will rave about, sprinkle flour over your cooked garlic. Gradually whisk in chicken broth, soy sauce, onion powder, thyme, and mustard powder. Allow this mixture to simmer until it thickens beautifully.

Step 5: Add Creaminess

Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese (if using) into your gravy until smooth. Getting this part right ensures that every bite of chicken will be enveloped in creamy goodness!

Step 6: Combine Everything

Finally, return the chicken back to your skillet with the sauce. Let it simmer together for a few minutes so that all those flavors meld perfectly. This step makes sure every piece of chicken gets coated with that delicious gravy.

And there you have it—your very own Creamy Garlic Chicken ready to be enjoyed! Serve over rice or pasta for an extra treat!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Garlic Chicken

Making the perfect Creamy Garlic Chicken is all about the little details. Here are some tips to help you achieve a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen!

• Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves caramelize beautifully and provide a richer flavor than pre-minced or powdered garlic. This will enhance the overall taste of your dish.

• Sear the Chicken: Take the time to properly sear your chicken breasts until golden brown. This step locks in moisture and adds depth to the flavor, making your chicken juicy and delicious.

• Adjust Thickness with Broth: If you find the sauce too thick, gradually add more chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency. This ensures that the sauce remains creamy without becoming overly dense.

• Experiment with Herbs: Don’t be afraid to mix in other herbs like rosemary or parsley to customize the flavor profile. Fresh herbs can brighten up the dish and add complexity.

• Rest Before Serving: Allow your chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing. This helps retain its juices, resulting in a more flavorful and moist meal.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken

Serving your Creamy Garlic Chicken can be as delightful as preparing it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can create a presentation that’s both beautiful and appetizing.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness, making the dish visually appealing.
• Lemon Wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to add a splash of brightness that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that pairs beautifully with the rich sauce.
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli offers a nice crunch and balances out the richness of the dish while adding essential nutrients.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy chicken.
• Roasted Asparagus: Tender roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with salt enhances the meal with its earthy flavors and vibrant color.

With these serving suggestions, your Creamy Garlic Chicken will not only be delicious but also visually stunning! Enjoy crafting this meal for yourself or sharing it with loved ones. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Garlic Chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep! It not only holds up well in the fridge but also makes weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stove or microwave until warmed through.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on low heat on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to restore creaminess.
• Microwave in short increments, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Got questions? We’ve got answers!

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts in this Creamy Garlic Chicken recipe?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work wonderfully and provide additional moisture. Just adjust your cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer.

What can I serve with Creamy Garlic Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. You could even serve it over pasta or rice to soak up all that delicious sauce!

How can I make Creamy Garlic Chicken healthier?

To make it lighter, consider using low-fat cream or reducing the amount of cheese. You can also add more veggies to bulk it up without adding many calories!

Can I make this Creamy Garlic Chicken recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Simply substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative and skip the Parmesan cheese, or use a dairy-free cheese product.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Creamy Garlic Chicken! This dish is special because it’s comforting yet elegant enough for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or loved ones, it’s sure to impress. Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!